Idaho Man Arrested for Striking Counter-Protester at Tesla Demonstration

Christopher Talbot, 70, faces aggravated battery charges after allegedly hitting a Trump supporter with his car during an escalating protest at a Tesla dealership in Meridian, Idaho.

The incident occurred during a protest involving 30 anti-Tesla demonstrators and 200 counter-protesters at a Tesla dealership in Meridian, Idaho, on March 29, 2025.
Christopher Talbot allegedly made an obscene gesture before striking a 49-year-old counter-protester with his car as the victim exited a truck displaying pro-Trump flags.
The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries, drove himself to a hospital for treatment, and was later released.
Police used Talbot's license plate to locate his home, where he was arrested and charged with aggravated battery, a felony offense.
The Meridian Police Department has called for peaceful demonstrations and respect for First Amendment rights as investigations into the incident and broader unrest targeting Tesla continue.